Here is a photograph of a Panther Ausf. D at Meppen dump, taken by Robert
Bracken's father who was in the 23rd Field Company Engineers, RCE, in North
Western Europe during WWII.

The variant is obvious by the "dustbin" commander's cupola and the slim flap
for the machine gun port in the glacis plate. It is interesting to note that
this early model Panther seems to have avoided ever receiving a coat of Zimmerit.

The number "534" is roughly painted on the turret side and outlined in white.
The digits may be black or red. The turret cross appears to have a dark
interior, but note the widely spaced white balkenkreuz near the headlight on the
front armour plate.

By 1944, many early Panthers such as this were retrofitted with
new style tracks and wheels. Unfortunately, this vehicles' tracks are so heavily
worn that it is difficult to determine whether they are the early "notched"
links, or the later version with the diagonal chevrons. However, it would appear
that at least the first dished roadwheel is the original 16 bolt style.

Robert Bracken would be very grateful for any additional
information about this tank. He can be contacted at his email address
RCAFSpitfire@aol.com